SDLP MLA Pat Ramsey
SDLP Foyle MLA Pat Ramsey has welcomed news that the Department of Health has granted £800,000 to the Family Fund after years of uncertainty around the service’s future.
Mr. Ramsey criticised the Department previously after it had withheld an expected payment of £750, 000 to the group.
The fund is used by around 4,000 families who care for disabled loved ones in Northern Ireland.
Mr. Ramsey who chairperson of both the All Party Group on Disability and the All Party Group on Learning Disability, said: “This announcement by the Health Minister is to be warmly welcomed. I am delighted that he has at last responded to the genuine fears of my and indeed his own constituents.”
“Over 300 families with disabled children in my constituency and over 4000 families across NI use this fund to meet the cost living.
“Living costs for those living with a disability are roughly three times that of those living without.
“This in fact marks an increase in the financial support previously given to those at risk of being marginalised in society.”
“I welcome the Ministers announcement that he will also bring forward extra funding in order to address the numbers of those awaiting an insulin pump.
“This is an issue I have addressed with him on behalf of many constituents and I am delighted with the good news.
“It is important that we continually work to ensure those living with pronounced difficulties do not suffer unduly as a result of Departmental decisions. This is something I have dedicated my political career to doing.”
